As the summer season approaches, it's essential to ensure that your rental property is ready to welcome guests visiting for their beach getaway. Here are some tips to help you prepare your vacation home for the upcoming summer season:

• Deep Cleaning: Start by giving your home a thorough cleaning. This includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, cleaning windows, power washing the exterior, and wiping down surfaces. A clean home sets the right impression for renters. Please reach out if you need any recommendations for a cleaner.

• Maintenance Check: Walk through your property and inspect for any maintenance issues. Fix any leaky faucets, replace light bulbs, fix handrails, tighten or replace storm doors, repair damaged furniture or appliances, and attend to any other issues that need attention. The biggest items to check include; roof (leaks), refrigerator, Wifi, cable/streaming services, A/C & HVAC, hot water heater, pools/hot tubs, elevators, and any other important amenities. Making sure all of these are in working order will save you time & money, reduce the risk of emergency repairs during the summer season, increase repeat rentals, reduce complaints, and lower your own stress. 

• Safety Inspection: Ensure that your home meets safety standards. Check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment to ensure they are in working condition.

• Outdoor Spaces: Pay attention to outdoor areas such as decks, patios, outside shower, and gardens. Clean outdoor furniture, trim bushes and trees, deep clean the outdoor shower, and make sure the space is inviting for renters to enjoy.

• Decor and Furnishings: Evaluate the decor and furnishings of your rental property. Consider refreshing the decor with a coat of paint or new accessories. Make sure furniture is comfortable and in good condition. Tenants will complain about broken, damaged, and dated furniture (rightfully so).

• Stock Up on Essentials: Stock up on essential supplies for renters such as toiletries, cleaning supplies, linens, towels, and kitchen essentials. Ensure that these items are clean and in good condition. While this is not required for a homeowner to do, those that do see higher rates of repeats, retention, and satisfied tenants. Many times an owner will only need to restock these items once or twice a summer season.

• Create an Information Packet: Put together an information packet for renters that includes important details about the property, local attractions, emergency contacts, trash schedules, and house rules.

• Review Rental Agreements: Review and update your rental agreements as needed. Make sure that all adjustments are made and you have contacted your agency/representative.

By adhering to these suggestions, you can guarantee that your rental property on Long Beach Island is primed to welcome guests and offer them an unforgettable experience throughout their stay. Property owners who implement these strategies and upkeep their rental units tend to attract more rental opportunities at better rates compared to those who neglect these measures.